Nagasaki Wa Kyou Mo Ame Datta

Maekawa Kiyoshi's song "Nagasaki Wa Kyou Mo Ame Datta" ("Nagasaki Was Rainy Again Today") is a poignant ballad that delves into themes of unrequited love, longing, and the melancholic beauty of Nagasaki. The lyrics paint a vivid picture of a person wandering the rain-soaked streets of Nagasaki, searching for a lost love. The recurring rain serves as a metaphor for the protagonist's tears and unending sorrow, emphasizing the depth of their emotional turmoil.

The song opens with the protagonist expressing their devotion to a single person, believing in the words of love they once shared. This sets the stage for a journey of searching and wandering, as they navigate the cobblestone streets alone, their heart heavy with unfulfilled longing. The imagery of the rain-soaked streets and the solitary figure highlights the sense of isolation and despair that permeates the song.

As the protagonist visits familiar places, such as Maruyama at night, they are met with the cold, biting wind, which only deepens their sense of loneliness. The repeated question of where their beloved might be underscores the uncertainty and desperation of their search. The city of Nagasaki, with its secrets and hidden corners, becomes a character in itself, reflecting the protagonist's inner turmoil and unanswered questions.

The final verse brings the emotional intensity to a peak, as the protagonist's tears mix with the rain, symbolizing their complete surrender to their sorrow. Despite having given up everything for love, their heart remains in disarray, seeking solace in alcohol. The song concludes with a poignant acknowledgment that, despite the protagonist's cries and grievances, the rain in Nagasaki continues to fall, mirroring their unending heartache.